All the functionality of Dura Ace, but for less money

The system is designed to deliver quick and smooth front shifting under high pedaling torque.

On paper, Shimano’s recently launched Ultegra R8000 drivetrain has all the functionality of the higher priced Dura Ace road group. But how does it actually perform in the real world? To find out we turn to our friends at the Global Cycling Network for this first ride review.

Here’s a recap of the new Ultegra group. Employing the latest technologies from its Dura-Ace R9100 road components and through its proven system engineering approach, Shimano’s Ultegra R8000 series is claimed to deliver refined rider ergonomics, increased shifting performance, and confident control in a variety of riding conditions. Featuring expanded Rider Tuned gearing configurations, more shifting and braking choices, and the power of Shimano’s E-Tube Project customization, Ultegra R8000 is designed to meet the specific needs of the broad spectrum of performance road cyclists.

Available with either Di2 electronic or the mechanical shifting reviewed above, each system is also available in either rim brake or hydraulic disc brake options. Expanded Rider Tuned gearing options — including Shimano’s widest-range new 11-34T performance road cassette — enhance drivetrain versatility. Ultegra R8000 also utilizes Shimano’s low-profile Shadow rear derailleur design for improved shift performance and a sleek appearance. For Di2 shift systems, Shimano’s SYNCHRO and SEMI-SYNCHRO Shift programming continues to open up new possibilities.

Drivetrain

Highlights of the new drivetrain include the FC-8000 Crankset, which delivers increased efficiency and frame compatibility. The FC-R8000 HOLLOWTECH II Crankset receives numerous technologies from Dura-Ace R9100 along with shaping which further enhances Ultegra’s four-arm design. Shimano’s Rider Tuned chainring combinations offer multiple gearing configurations via a singular BCD platform for excellent versatility. With redesigned chainring tooth profiling first introduced for Dura-Ace R9100, the Ultegra FC-R8000 Crankset is optimized for the latest disc brake frame designs without the need to increase q-factor. Other features include:

As with Dura-Ace R9100, the new 11-30T Ultegra cassette increases gear range while remaining compatible with the new short cage rear derailleur options. And the addition of the new 11-34T CS-HG800-11 cassette will be welcome for riders who seek the most challenging terrain. Here’s a rundown:

Disc Brake Breakdown

Utilizing a lightweight and sleek flat mount design, the BR-R8070 Hydraulic Disc Brake Caliper features premium stopping power and aerodynamics for road applications. The new RT800 rotor offers new ICE TECHNOLOGIES FREEZA construction with even greater heat management for confident performance on the longest descents. Here’s more disc brake beta:

Mechanical Shifting Systems

Ultegra’s ST-R8000 Dual Control Levers have further refined shift performance with improved ergonomics with both mechanical rim brake and hydraulic disc brake options. The new FD-R8000 mechanical front derailleur utilizes the new link construction first introduced with Dura-Ace R9100 for easy setup and fine-tuning adjustments without the need for specialty tools. The RD-R8000 rear derailleur utilizes Shimano’s SHADOW RD design, which allows for more stable shifting performance and a lower profile to minimize exposure to damage.

Redesigned internal shifting unit for quick and intuitive shifting

Increased reach adjustment range

Lighter front shifting when paired with redesigned FD-R8000

Slimmed-down hydraulic internals (ST-R8020) for similar ergonomics between
disc and rim brake configurations

Weight: 438g (ST-R8000, Pair), 550g (ST-R8020, Pair)

Here are the highlights of the new FD-R8000 front derailleur (2×11-speed):

New construction matches the force curve of the hand more naturally to reduce effort at the end of shifting

Di2 Shifting Systems

From aspiring road racers to those who prefer epic rides off the beaten path, Ultegra Di2 precise shifting performance is highly versatile with multiple braking and gearing configurations. With refined designs inside and out, both the hydraulic disc brake and rim brake Dual Control Lever options deliver the same improved ergonomics and increased reach adjustment range. Ultegra ST-R8050 and ST-R8070 Dual Control Levers also provide more tactile feedback from shift operation for a more intuitive feel, even when riding with winter gloves. Paired with Shimano’s E-Tube Project and compatible with SYNCHRO SHIFT technology, R8000 is the most customizable Ultegra group ever created. Additional features include:

More defined tactile feedback and clearer separation between shift buttons support a more intuitive shift operation, even with thick riding gloves

Each switch has the option for multi-shift ON or OFF

Programmable function of ST top button remote switch for either third-party cycle
computer or shifting operation

New Wheels

There are two new lightweight wheelset — the tubeless carbon-laminate WH-RS700 rim brake wheels (which replace the Ultegra WH-6800) and the tubeless WH-RS770 disc brake wheels with road e-thru axles.

Shimano is also rolling out new hubs (HB/FH-RS700/770) that encourage faster acceleration with a weight saving of almost 60g compared to a pair of Ultegra 6800 hubs, whilst the rims use a new rigid but lighter carbon lay-up procedure to create a rim brake wheelset that comes in 80g lighter than its predecessor. Claimed weights: WH-RS700 (1,568g/Pair), WH-RS770 (1,639g/Pair)

Shimano SPD-SL Pedals

Finally, the new PD-R8000 Pedal receives numerous refinements resulting in a lighter overall weight and a lower stack height. Those refinements along with a carbon-composite body and extra-wide platform, deliver efficient power transfer.

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Wordpress Comments:

Looks good, but it seems to be the cycling industry is more about updates to maintain market share than real improvements or added value. Still going strong on my 12 year old DA 7800 with 50,000 + miles. Yes, I can certainly afford the latest and greatest, but why. Just me. Many others see it different and that’s fine as well.

Real World: From September 9th I have 427 miles on the new r8000 with 50/34 11-32 cassette (but with ROTOR Q-Rings), Fast, super fast, and one 8000 feet mountain event. Shifting is smooth and quiet on hammer rides and century rides. ..damn.. I guess it’s time for my free tune up next week?